Al Arabi players during a training session.
Doha, Qatar: Al Arabi and Al Wakrah will set their sights on entering the elite group of 2023-2024 AFC Champions League when the two home teams face their respective opponents in battles that could propel them into the group stage of the tournament.
The spotlight falls on Al Thumama Stadium when the Amir Cup champions Al Arabi take on FC AGMK of Uzbekistan in one of the two play-off matches today.
The showdown is scheduled to kick off at 8:30pm. Having triumphed in the prestigious Amir Cup last season, Al Arabi will be brimming with determination as they look to secure qualification for the group stage draw which is set for Thursday.
Having secured their play-off spot by clinching second place in the 2022-2023 season QNB Stars League, the Dream Team is raring to advance further in the continental tournament.
Al Arabi coach Yunus Ali expressed the team's readiness to face AGMK, looking to secure a group stage spot after an 11-year absence.
Ali also highlighted his confidence in the players, adding that Al Arab fans' unwavering support is anticipated, fuelling a strong performance against the Uzbek team today.
Al Arabi coach Younis Ali (right) speaks during a press conference, yesterday. Pic: Abdul Basit
"Al Arab fans do not need an invitation, especially as they always support us all the time, and certainly their presence with us in the match will be an incentive for us to make a strong show in front of AGMK," Ali said, adding that despite Aron Gunnarsson's injury, Al Arabi stand prepared to bring joy to their supporters. Their key players include the likes of Yousef Msakni, Omar Al Somah, Wassim Keddari, Jassim Al Hail, Rafinha Alcantara, and Ahmed Fathi, are set to grace the field, ensuring an electrifying showdown.
On the other side of the field, FC AGMK, having secured their play-off berth by defeating Oman's Al Seeb in the preliminary-round match, is equally poised for an intense clash. Anticipation is his as both teams find themselves in a must-win scenario.
Meanwhile, Al Wakrah will be primed for a gripping play-off duel against Navbahor of Uzbekistan in today's early play-off battle, set to kick off at 6:30 PM at the Al Janoub Stadium.
The winner gets to join the rest of the top teams in the Group Stage draw.
Having secured their play-off ticket by claiming fourth place in last season's QSL, Al Wakrah have their sights on a historic group stage entry.
They will be in high spirits after earning a strong start to the Expo Stars League this season, with a commanding 3-0 victory over Muaither in Week 1. Guided by the skilled Spaniard Marquez Lopez, the Blue Wave boasts a formidable roster of local and foreign talents. The passionate support of their fans is expected to bolster their momentum, as Al Wakrah battles not only for victory but also for their maiden entry into the group stage of Asia's premier club tournament.
